The term "32-bit" refers to the number of bits a computer processor uses when processing data and performing calculations. Operating systems and applications are labeled "32-bit" or "64-bit" to indicate the type of processor with which they should be used. 64-bit processors, operating systems and applications are beginning to replace 32-bit technologies because of their superior speed.
Processors
32-bit processors can process 32 bits of information at a time. Most processors sold in computers today are 64-bit, but the additional processing power can't be capitalized on unless the operating system and applications are made for 64-bit processors.
Operating Systems
Even though most processors sold in computers today are 64-bit, the operating system that comes with the computer may not be. Windows Vista and Windows 7 are available in 32-bit and 64-bit variations.
Applications
Even if a computer's processor and operating system are 64-bit, the applications and programs that run on the computer must also be 64-bit to take advantage of the computer's advanced processor. The 32-bit applications can usually be installed on a 64-bit system, but drivers for printers, scanners, digital cameras and other electronics can cause conflicts. As a result, you should research the compatibility of a 32-bit application before installing it on a 64-bit system.
Definition
A 32-bit processor is essentially a chip that processes data with a lane that is 32 bits wide. This means that any instructions that pass through the processor at any one time can be up to 32 bits (4 bytes, or a DWORD) in size.
Benefits
All 32-bit processors have the capability of using larger chunks of data and crunching 4 bytes in one single clock cycle. This is quite handy when doing very complex and large mathematical operations (such as graphics rendering).
Function
The function of a processor, regardless of the bit width, is to perform operations based on instructions given to it and data attached to the instructions. Larger bit width allows for a larger instruction set and larger registers.
Potential
Processors with higher bit width are constantly being developed. The 32-bit processors have a limited potential because of the small bit width they have, but their potential is much higher than 16-bit processors, for example.
Processing Speed
As tempting as it is to get a processor with the highest clock speed, consider also the bit width. Processors with a higher bit width will be able to take larger chunks of data from programs that actually use the full potential of their registers.
Background
64-bit processors can represent larger chunks of data at a time than 32-bit processors, allowing more efficient handling of all types of computer calculations. Although 64-bit processing is inherently faster, it also requires more temporary storage--random access memory (RAM)--to accommodate the larger chunks of data and provide better system performance.
RAM Considerations
32-bit operating systems can only use about 3.5 gigabytes (GB) of RAM, even if you install more; 64-bit operating systems can use much more. For example, the 64-bit versions of Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate support up to 192 GB of RAM. According to Microsoft, you need at least 4 GB of RAM in order to experience an increase in system performance with 64-bit processing. If you have less than 4 GB of RAM, moving to 64-bit could actually decrease system performance.
In summary, most laptops and PCs which we buy now have 64bit processors and are future proof. Having said that the expected speed increases will not occur until all of the software falls into line and is capable of taking advantage of the64bit OS.
